Orleans Parish Soil Data
Orleans Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.9
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
22.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Orleans Parish, Louisiana
Acidic Peat and Urban Soils
Orleans Parish soil averages a pH of 5.87, remaining slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.74. However, it still falls short of the national 6.5 neutral benchmark, reflecting its coastal and marshy origins.
Fine Particles and Low Sand
The soil is remarkably low in sand at just 5.1%, dominated instead by 35.2% clay and 28.0% silt. This heavy composition creates a dense, sticky soil that holds water tightly but can be difficult to work with hand tools.
Extreme Organic Wealth
The organic matter content is a staggering 22.38%, which is more than ten times the national average. This richness drives a high available water capacity of 0.232 in/in, making it some of the most nutrient-dense soil in the country.
Managing Saturated Ground
Though specific drainage classes aren't listed, the high clay and organic content point to soil that stays wet for long periods. Proper elevation and raised beds are essential for gardening and construction in this environment.
Lush Growth in Zone 9b
In the warm climate of Zone 9b, this organic-rich soil supports tropical ornamentals and citrus trees. The high fertility is a dream for urban gardeners looking to grow productive food forests.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Orleans Parish have?
Orleans Parish's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 5% sand, 28% silt, and 35% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Orleans Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Orleans Parish's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Orleans Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Orleans Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Orleans Parish's soil?
Based on Orleans Parish's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 5.9, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Orleans Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Orleans Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Orleans Parish
Soil Verdict
Orleans Parish is in USDA hardiness zone 9b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 25°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Orleans Parish closely matches the Louisiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Orleans Parish on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Louisiana
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.